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Country Guide

Zermatt - Switzerland

Zermatt lies in the spectacular Alpine region of Valais, for a long time the most inaccessible region of Switzerland. Mountain passes have been opened up, connecting the area to the rest of the country, but these are still very challenging to drive in places. The town lies in the shadow of one of the most famous mountains, the dramatic Matterhorn.

Zermatt is entirely car free – private vehicles must be left well outside of town with a train running the final 6km into the town. Small electric taxis and vans run throughout the town, connecting guests with their hotels.

Zermatt is the base for both winter and summer visitors. A massive network of cable cars as gondolas connect with ski lifts in winter and hiking trails the rest of the year. Summer is skiing is possible at these high altitudes and it's also possible to ski straight into Italy from here!

Most day visitors come for the stunning views of the Matterhorn. Rising alone like a giant tooth, the solitary peak is visible from anywhere in the town, a spectacular backdrop to the wooden chalets and hotels. Clouds form as the wind whistles over the snowy peak as it towers above the forests and lower mountains.